This Tuscan Ravioli Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Loaded with tender ravioli, fresh veggies, and tasty herbs, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Honestly, what’s better than slurping up rich broth and soft pasta? I could eat this for dinner every day! 😄 It’s super easy to make, too—just toss everything in one pot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds that classic Italian flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms or lentils for that hearty texture.
Chicken Broth: I always choose low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works perfectly and maintains a nice flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky kick. If you can’t find them, regular diced tomatoes are fine. You could also use crushed tomatoes for a thicker consistency.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for its vibrant color and nutrients. If it’s not available, you can use kale or even frozen spinach – just make sure to thaw and drain it first!
What’s the Best Way to Achieve the Perfect Flavor?
Building flavor is essential in this Tuscan Ravioli Soup. It starts with browning your sausage well for maximum taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, add the ground sausage.
- Break the sausage apart with a spoon and let it brown for 5-7 minutes. The key is letting it get a bit crispy.
- Next, add your onion and garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent, which takes just a few minutes and releases wonderful aromas.
- Don’t forget to add the red pepper flakes—this gives the soup a nice little kick!
Simmering is also vital! Once you add the broth and tomatoes, let it simmer to blend all those flavors together for about 10 minutes. This patience pays off!
Tuscan Ravioli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground Italian sausage or ground turkey/chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
- 1 (8 oz) bag refrigerated or frozen cheese ravioli
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and 15-20 minutes cooking it all together. Great for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage (or turkey/chicken) and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s a lot of fat, drain it off.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, which usually takes around 3-4 minutes. The smells will be amazing!
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the red pepper flakes. Cook for just 1 more minute to release the flavors.
4. Combine the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (including their juice). Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This helps all those flavors blend nicely.
5. Cook the Ravioli:
Add the cheese ravioli to the soup. Let it cook according to the package instructions, which is generally about 3-5 minutes, or until the ravioli float to the top and are tender.
6. Stir in the Spinach:
Gently add the chopped spinach to the soup. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until wilted. It adds a lovely pop of color!
7. Finish with Parmesan:
Take the pot off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls. If you like, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy soup!
This Tuscan Ravioli Soup is perfect for cozy nights in, with tender pasta and a rich, savory broth. It’s sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Different Types of Ravioli?
Absolutely! You can use any type of ravioli you like, such as mushroom, spinach, or even lobster. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly based on the filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can definitely make this soup vegetarian! Substitute the ground sausage with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils or lentil crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set for a hearty vegetarian version!
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This Tuscan Ravioli Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty Italian bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread for an extra treat!